What must be inspected on a vehicle’s braking system?

The essential components of a vehicle's braking system that need to be inspected include the brake pads, rotors, and hydraulic lines. The brake pads are critical for creating the necessary friction to stop the vehicle, and they wear down over time, which can affect braking performance. Inspecting the rotors is also crucial, as they must be free of grooves, warping, or other damage to ensure effective stopping power. Additionally, the hydraulic lines are vital for maintaining the integrity of the braking system; any leaks or damage in these lines can lead to brake failure.

While other aspects related to braking, such as brake lights, signals, and fluid levels, are important for overall vehicle safety and functionality, they do not encompass the mechanical integrity of the braking system itself. Drum and disc types provide information regarding the design of the braking system but do not pertain to the condition or effectiveness of the braking system's components. Hence, the inspection focuses primarily on the components directly involved in the stopping mechanism, making the first choice the most comprehensive and relevant for assessing the vehicle's braking system.